Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.